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Ford Launches First American Hybrid
Ford has finally rolled out their Escape hybrid SUV. Ford's website has more information. Ford will use Toyota's first-generation hybrid technology in the SUV (the 2004 Prius is Toyota's second generation technology). Best of all, the Escape is street-legal in residential areas. Update: 08/06 22:31 GMT by M : A reader points out that GM will be selling a hybrid pickup soon, but it isn't available for sale to the public yet, so Ford is still the first.
Not all SUVs are body-on-frame murdermobiles.
I don't happen to like SUVs, but in my opinion only the large truck-based ones pose a substantial danger to other road users.
The Escape arguably less capable (in terms of ground clearance, 4wd cleverness, and suspension goodness) than your average Subaru station wagon. It is sold to people who think sitting high up in the air is a good idea when driving a small vehicle.
Why yes, I AM a rocket scientist!
so your mom is an environmentalist that is suckered by the 4wD myth.
I lived in northern michigan a place that got 4-6 feet of snow easy and drove a Kia Sephia on days that SUV's were stuck in the ditches.
4WD does nothing for you if you are not trained how to use it, and 99% of the time it is certianly not needed.
By the time your mom realizes she needs 4WD to drive it will be too late and she will have buried the car. Plus 4WD engaged makes breaking more HAZARDOUS in icy roads as it makes you think you have more traction than you really have.
people that buy 4WD are silly and dumb. they think they are getting something when in reality they are only lowering their fuel economy for something they will not need.